Samdruptse Monastery Namchi

One of the most revered monasteries in Sikkim, the Samdruptse Monastery boasts of modern planning and architecture, which is one of its highlights. The monastery is just 72 km Gangtok. In the local language Bhutia, the word ‘Samdruptse’ means ‘The Wish Fulfilling Hill’ and its name is a pointer to the extreme popularity of the monastery amid the devotees as well as the tourists.

It was on 22nd October in 1997 that the foundation of the monastery was laid by his holiness, Dalai Lama. This masterpiece is a work of art of around 1000 laborers, and several learned architects, engineers, and sculptors. The construction of the monastery got completed in 3 years.

Architecture

The colorful Samdruptse Monastery is an amalgamation of Sikkimese, Tibetan and modern- day styles of architecture. The most stunning feature is 135 feet statue of Guru Padmasambhava statue, and it probably is the world’s highest statue of Guru Padmasambhava. The statue in golden color with copper-colored clothes looks amazing.

This wonderful monastery is a treasure house of various paintings, historic sculptures, artifacts, and statues. Beautiful paintings and sculptures adorn the walls of the monastery. The architecture plan of the monastery is a combination of historic and modern nuances. Covering the statue from all the sides, the monastery also provides accommodation to Lamas and Monks.

Festivals

The monastery celebrates all the festivals related to Buddhism with great zeal and it surely is one of the best time to visit Samdruptse Monastery. Mask dance is an essential feature of the festivals celebrated here. The other highlights are superb fireworks, grand decoration, religious chants, sumptuous food, and rituals done by the monks.

Other attractions

During the visit to the Samdruptse Monastery, do not miss exploring the other attractions. One of the most popular one is the Shiv Mandir with a huge statue of Lord Shiva, at Solophok that is known as the imitation of Char Dham- one of the most revered sites of Hinduism. The other attractions include Tirikhola Dancing Falls, Temi Tea Garden, Tendong State Biodiversity Park, Salley Bong Cave, and Kanchanjunga Handicrafts Center.